Star Wars action figures enter Toy Hall of Fame

Star Wars action figures and Dominoes have entered the Toy Hall of Fame.

The products were chosen out of more than 300 nominated toys, by a US panel formed of museum curators and a national committee of educators, academics, collectors and toy experts.

The 2012 winning toys have entered The National Museum of Play at The Strong, a children's and cultural history museum in New York.

Toy Hall of Fame Committee Member, Starlight Runner CEO and toy industry consultant Jeff Gomez told ToyNews: "The 2012 induction of Dominoes into the National Toy Hall of Fame is well-earned and connects with me personally in many ways.

"The induction of Star Wars action figures into the 2012 National Toy Hall of Fame is also a powerful reminder that a generation influenced by the films of George Lucas has come of age.

"It's important to remember that in 1977 when the first Star Wars movie came out, the only way to re-experience this amazing universe was to buy another ticket and walk back into the movie theater.

"The Kenner/Hasbro action figures allowed kids to stay in that universe a little bit longer, and more importantly it placed the onus of extending that rich mythology into intricate and spectacular stories that played out across our bedspreads and back yards.

He added: "It's so amazing to have been invited by The Strong and the National Museum of Play to become a Selection Committee Member for the National Toy Hall of Fame.

"The fact that I was considered is indicative of the progress made by interactive, digital and transmedia narrative in toy play and the toy industry."

The Toy Hall of Fame was established in the US in 1998. To date, 51 toys have been inducted, including Barbie and Mr Potato Head.

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